A 24-year-old North Tonawanda man is facing felony animal cruelty charges after police say officers discovered two severely malnourished dogs inside an Oliver Street home.
Leo Mayes III was arrested Tuesday, May 5th and charged with aggravated cruelty to animals following an investigation that began when North Tonawanda Police responded to a call at the home.
According to police, officers were at the residence when they detected what authorities described as a “foul odor” coming from inside the house. As officers continued investigating, they located two dogs that police allege were in extremely poor physical condition.
Authorities said both animals appeared to be severely emaciated.
Police requested assistance from a North Tonawanda Police Department dog control officer who responded to assess the condition of both animals.
After examining the dogs, investigators determined the animals had been deprived of food and required immediate veterinary attention.
The dogs were removed from the home and turned over to the Niagara SPCA where they are now receiving care and treatment.
Officials have not released additional details regarding the dogs’ breeds, ages or current medical conditions, though authorities indicated the animals were suffering from significant neglect.
Under New York’s penal law, aggravated cruelty to animals is a felony and involves conduct that causes extreme physical pain, serious injury or death to an animal through intentional or reckless neglect or abuse.
Following his arrest, Mayes was issued an appearance ticket and released pending future court proceedings. Police say the investigation remains ongoing.
